7.5 rear end frozen bolt

[97ranger22bronco]

I'm working to replace the axle shafts, seals, and bearings on my '97 and the little 8 mm bolt that holds the big pin in place in the diff has decided that it doesn't want to move at all and when i tried to use an open end wrench, it ended up stripping a good bit.

Any ideas on how I can get the bolt out? A regular socket doesn't fit in the opening unfortunately

 

[Uncle Gump]

I have a six point brake bleeder wrench made by snap on that works on every one I've ever come across.

 

[lil_Blue_Ford]

I actually bought a 6-point socket from Autozone for 1/4” drive that was short enough to get a ratchet in there too that I’ve been using. Can’t remember offhand if it was an 8mm or 5/16”, both fit the bolt but I don’t remember if they were both the same length or one was shorter. Basically bought the shortest socket I could find.

If it’s really rounded it may be a problem.

 

[97ranger22bronco]

I found a shorty 8 mm 6 point socket that's coming from amazon tomorrow, but I'm afraid that at this point it may be a little too late. I think the bolt head may be too far gone though

 

[pjtoledo]

5/16 is about .002 smaller than 8mm. your choice on that.

with a damaged bolt head make sure the wrench is on as best as possible.
don't just give it a big pull, instead apply pressure and slowly increase the pressure. take a few minutes to do this.
this allows the thread locker to weaken.

it helps if an assistant can place a punch on the head and give it a whack while exerting pressure. use a big punch.